Two Northwest Dems say ‘no’ to stimulus

A pair of Democratic congressmen from the Northwest, of very different political bent, were among just seven Democrats to vote “No” as the Obama-backed stimulus package sailed through the U.S. House of Representatives.

The stimulus plan was approved on a 246-183 vote by Congress’ lower chamber.

Republicans were unanimous in voting “No.” Even such wavering GOP moderates as Rep. Mike Castle, R-Delaware, voted with their party’s leadership. So did Rep. Dave Reichert, R-Wash., lone GOP House member from Western Washington.

Freshman Rep. Walt Minnick, D-Idaho, the state’s first Democratic congressman in 14 years, voted “No.” Minnick is a businessman and conservationist who represents a Republican-leaning district, with expectations of a strong challenge in 2010.

Minnick was one of 11 Democrats to vote against the stimulus plan when it first came before the House.

He was joined Friday, however, Rep. Peter DeFazio, D-Oregon, a populist and 22-year House veteran who has not faced serious opposition in years.

DeFazio was the lone House member to vote for the stimulus plan on the first go-round, but oppose it on final passage.

The House has heard some grumbling from liberal Democrats that their Senate counterparts gave away too much in order to secure three Republican votes in Congress’ upper chamber.